Lakeside Living residents granted $47,000 worth of wishes
It was like Christmas in July for residents at Lakeside Living care community, where a series of packages was delivered.
A wish list of items, valued at more than $47,000, was purchased through a Commonwealth Government Lifestyle and Dining grant designed for improved dining and activities.
Among the deliveries were a table tennis table, large garden umbrellas, a coffee machine and cart, physiotherapy machines and a large dementia clock.
Smaller items, including an air-fryer, sandwich press, juicer and glassware, will promote independence and make residents feel more at home.
Nurse Unit Manager Lady Anne Vidal said playing Santa was an exciting, but difficult, role.
“We did have some restrictions, with the companies on our supply list, but we tried to grant as many requests as possible,” she said.
“It was a great opportunity to hear from residents what it is they want, to make life a bit brighter or easier.”
Resident Ian Smyth was excited to relive his youth with a table tennis bat in hand.
“As a kid, our house was the place to be because we were the only ones with a table,” he said.
“All the kids would turn up to play table tennis and I thought I was pretty good too.
“I thought it would be a piece of cake, picking up the bat again, but I’ll need a lot of practice.”
Keep an eye out for more deliveries, expected over the coming weeks!
